Moving has been universally acknowledged to be one of the toughest thing to do. Moving in the winter is tougher, especially after the Holidays. There are numbers of required things to be done leading up to the move-in day, and most of the time it takes way more of your time and effort than expected.

The advantage of moving into a new place in the winter is that it’s slow season for apartment/house hunting, which means you’re more likely to get a great deal on an apartment/house and save on your moving cost. Although there are additional things to do when moving in the winter, we believe with the proper precautions, you will be in your new home with no issue.

Check out our list of helpful tips for a safe move in the wintertime:

1. Get your own vehicle ready for the winter move

When planning on moving in the wintertime, it’s best to confirm that everything is running properly. Having your car serviced prior to the move-in date can minimize any possible car trouble during your trip. You also have to make sure your car is winterized, and that includes tires, breaks and wipers. As a precaution, make sure you load the following items into your car:

• A snow shovel
• Ice scrapers
• A jerrycan of fuel
• Roadside flares
• Jumper cables
• A car charger for your phone
• An emergency kit
• A membership card to a roadside assistance service

2. Hire Professional Movers to Ease the Process

Professional moving companies like Hercules Moving Company are a great choice to avoid much of the headache of moving in the wintertime. Their experience with winter weather conditions, furniture wrapping, and moving trucks that can bring all of your necessary items in one trip can all help you spend less time in the cold and more time in your new home.

3. Dress in layers

Dress accordingly when moving is just as important. Although wearing a winter coat is mostly the solution to stay warm, you may want to think about efficiency. It’s easier to move around in layers instead of wearing a winter coat. You will feel less bulky and more comfortable to do your work. Although make sure you keep extra clothing layers, hats, scarves and gloves in your car in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

3. Start early

Since it gets dark earlier in the winter, you may want to take the most advantage of the daytime hours. Aside from the temperature to be more comfortable during the day, it’s also safer. If you live in a two-floor house or apartment, make sure to get your packed boxes on the first floor to safe more work on the move-in day. The closer and the easier your boxes are to the front door means the faster it will be to move them into your car. This will allow you to be able to reach your soon-to-be home earlier.

4. Keep the sidewalks, driveways and streets snow-free

Although efficiency is important, remember that safety is your first priority. Walking on slippery walkways while carrying heavy boxes is very dangerous and most likely to cause an injury. Make sure to shovel, salt or snow blow the major walkways you will be walking on. If you don’t have time to do it yourself, make sure to plan ahead by arranging a snow removal company or your landlord/property manager to take care of it for you.

5. Double pack your possessions

Just like dressing up, packing for a move in the summer is different than in the winter. The major difference between the two is, of course, the temperature, which is why you have to be sure to do your research on how to pack for fragile items. Most electronics are sensitive to moisture and drastic temperature changes; and items such as plates, glasses and wood furniture tend to break when expose to a freezing temperature. Double pack can be one of the solutions to protect your possessions.

6. Take care of your soon-to-be home

Prepare for cardboard or plastic to place on the floor, carpet and hardwood in your soon-to-be home. Make sure to also put floor mats at every door. This will allow you to ensure your new home is protected, so you won’t have to deal with property damage. Plus, it will also keep your new home clean and prevent anyone from falling on slippery floors.

7. Be flexible

One thing to be sure about moving in the winter is that nothing is predictable. Be flexible and cautious to deal with possible complications. Expect road closures and longer travel time, and take considerations if your helpers express any concern. Having a back up plan if a storm is coming is better than getting caught in a blizzard.